Self testing ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI)

A method for performing a self test on a fault detector having a line side adapted to receive a sinusoidal input signal, and a load side adapted for connection to a load, and a conductive path there between, comprising:

• performing periodic self tests to determine the status of a protection circuit of said self testing fault detector without interrupting power to said load side.

A self testing fault detector having a line side and a load side and a conductive path there between, said apparatus comprising:

• a solenoid, adapted to move a miswire prevention plate from a first position operable to prevent closure of at least one contact disposed in said conductive path, to a second position operable to allow closure of said at least one contact when said self testing fault detector is powered from the line side;
• and
• a processor, adapted to perform a periodic self test to determine the status of the self testing fault detector without interrupting power to the load side.